Lisa Wilkinson has asked a pointed question to a major supporter of disgraced footballer Israel Folau. Amid controversy over Folau’s GoFundMe campaign – which was set up to cover his legal costs – in the wake of his sacking over “anti-gay” social media posts.
The former rugby union player was sacked from The Australian Wallabies squad, and his $4 million contract was terminated, after he repeatedly incited and posted discriminatory speech on his social media account. The posts sparked a national firestorm when he claimed all homosexuals would “burn in hell.”
Speaking to the Australian Christian Lobby’s managing director Martyn Iles – who thinks Christians are “marginalised” due to their religious beliefs – The Project host tried to nail him down on exactly what he thinks of homosexuality.
Taking a stand, Lisa asked: “Speaking of feeling marginalised, do you believe that homosexuals go to hell?”
“The mainstream Christian belief on this is that all of us are born going to hell,” Mr Iles responded failing to properly address Lisa’s question.
WATCH: Lisa Wilkinson’s Brutal Question For Christian Leader Supporting Israel Folau
Article continues after the video.
Folau started a GoFundMe campaign last week, asking people to donate $3 million to fight Rugby Australia. Iles’ organisation was backing the controversial crowdfunding scheme until it was shut down on Monday morning.
The appeal, which Folau said would cover his legal costs in suing Rugby Australia, had raised over $750,000.
A spokesperson for GoFundMe said after a “period of evaluation”, they had ruled Folau’s campaign violated its terms of service.
The company said it would not tolerate the promotion of discrimination or exclusion.
“We are absolutely committed to the fight for equality for LGBTIQ+ people and fostering an environment of inclusivity,” GoFundMe’s Australian regional director Nicola Britton said.
